Maria Cruz Trotter
STATE CO-CHAPLAIN
Puerto Rico is the “Island of Enchantment” where Maria grew up. She is proud of her heritage, culture, music, and the love of family and community. Her education is in early childhood, and she currently works with children in a Phoenix area school.
Moving to the States was a great transition both with culture, language and settling in her family.
Her faith has given her the strength not only to keep going, but also to help wherever she can. Youth is an important milestone in the journey to adulthood. Adolescence is a critical time in the development of physical, social, and emotional growth. As a single mother, she brings life skills to the role of guidance and mentoring of our youth.
Maria is active in her church and in her community advocating for Latina/Indigenous youth and issues impacting them.
Maria is ready to volunteer using her bilingual skills, life experiences, church retreats, and strong values in her role as CO-CHAPLAIN and Chair of Youth in the Latino Indigenous Coalition of Arizona.
Our Focus Areas
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Supporting early childhood development by helping young learners build strong foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social development
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Nurturing cultural identity and pride by connecting Latino and Indigenous youth to their heritage.
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Providing academic enrichment, tutoring, and mentorship to support classroom learning, encourage curiosity, and help students build confidence in their abilities.
Early Learning
& School Readiness
Empowering Pre-K students for a successful start to school through culturally relevant early education.
Cultural Awareness
& Pride
Instilling a sense of cultural pride and identity among Latino and Indigenous youth through educational and creative programs.
Academic Support
& Enrichment
Providing educational programs, tutoring, and mentorship to enhance learning and confidence
Our Initiatives
Hands-on activities that teach traditions, storytelling, art, and history—helping children connect with their
Latino and Indigenous heritage in meaningful ways.
Bilingual Early
Education
Fostering bilingualism and cultural connections through engaging, culturally relevant early education programs.
Cultural Heritage
Activities
Teaching traditions, stories, and arts to instill pride and appreciation for Indigenous and Latino heritage in young learners.
Tutoring & Family
Engagement
Offering after-school tutoring. workshops, and resources to involve familes in their childrents education.